The Year of Living Minimally – Week Twenty-four

It’s the first week of a new year, and I imagine some of you have resolved to clean out your clutter. Right? Yay! I’m your greatest fan.

Today is Thursday, and I’m watching a blizzard out my window. It’s a day for soup and books and movies and naps. Winter in New England can be harsh, but sometimes it’s a blessing – we’re forced to stop. Stop running in circles, driving aimlessly, buying things you don’t need (yes, milk, bread, and toilet paper are okay). Read, chat, watch a movie or play a board game with your kids. Snuggle with your partner, or your pet. Stare out the window and be thankful for warmth and food. Tomorrow we can head outside and play in the snow!

So I’m not decluttering today. I’m enjoying time with my husband and our little dog. I’ve got soup simmering on the stove and flashlights in case we lose power (fingers crossed we don’t). If you’ve made a resolution to get rid of your excesses, great. Remember, you’ve got an entire year to work on it!

If you must be out today (thank you to police, fire, rescue, Hospice workers), stay safe. If you have to shovel, go slow and take breaks. And if you live in a warm climate, well, look at what you’re missing.

Share this:

Like this:

Published by Martha Reynolds

I am the bestselling author of eight novels, including the Swiss Chocolate trilogy and VILLA DEL SOL, which won the 2018 Book Award in Literary Fiction from the Independent Publishers of New England.
My newest novel, APRIL IN GALWAY, releases 29 November 2018.
View all posts by Martha Reynolds

I’m in northern California where it’s unreasonably mild, but we did have an earthquake jolt the other night as our reminder that mother nature is firmly in charge of our destinies.
I quite like the idea of being forced to stop, and to snuggle instead… but completely understand it’s highly treacherous for those who *must* be out in order to serve others or to make a living.

Pauline, you have your own concerns in northern California. Stay safe!
I remember saying I couldn’t clean out the garage in the summer because it was too hot – well, this morning (Saturday) it’s 10 degrees with wind chills at -15. So….I read!